You Guide To Holidays In Bahrain - Everything You Need To Know

The new kid on the block when it comes to Middle East holidays, Bahrain shouldn’t be overlooked if you’re craving sun-drenched bliss in a destination that has it all.

An island nation located in the Persian Gulf between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, to give it its official name, is a place that is begging to be discovered. While rich in history and boasting a proud heritage, the country’s modern, forward-thinking outlook is showcased in the futuristic skyscrapers and architecture that await in the capital, Manama. Innovative attractions and exciting activities can be found close to ancient landmarks and cultural treasures, while you can also look forward to the opportunity to relax, explore, indulge and have fun. That’s not all, however, with so much more for families, couples and friends to discover. Let us answer your Bahrain questions and fill you in on everything you need to know about this enchanting Arabian destination.

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Is Bahrain Good For A Holiday?

Bahrain is an exceptional choice for holidays with family, friends or as a couple. You’ll find an excellent choice of 4- and 5-star hotels and resorts, with plenty of accommodation options, superb dining venues and an array of leisure features to ensure there’s never a dull moment during your stay. When not enjoying some well earned R&R in the plush surroundings of your holiday sanctuary, you’ll find an array of activities and attractions on a par with those in neighbouring destinations. From theme park fun and water park action to shopping mall spending sprees and golfing in the sun, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the many things to do in Bahrain. Immerse yourself in everyday life among spice, jewellery, fabric and souvenir stalls at Manama Souk, explore the past at Bahrain National Museum or step back in time with a visit to Bahrain Fort, a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Does Bahrain Have Beaches?

Bahrain does indeed have beaches and is a sublime choice for a beach holiday in a new destination. You’ll delight in days at Bilaj al Jazayer Beach, where you can relax atop soft sands alongside that special someone, or splash in the glistening surf with your little ones. Friends seeking excitement can enjoy water sports at Marassi Beach or Sama Bay, with kayaking, jet skiing, fly boarding and banana boat rides among the options. For a family-friendly spot, take a trip to Lagoona Beach. Here you’ll find a waterpark, a pretty garden and more aquatic activities. Those craving something completely enchanting should venture offshore to Jarada Island. Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, this unique sandy stretch appears depending on the tide and can only be reached by a 45-minute boat ride. The pretty beach provides a superb spot for Instagram shots as well as a heavenly picnic spot.

Is Bahrain Good For Children?

Bahrain is an amazing destination for children with lots of fun-filled attractions and activities for all ages. A day riding the slides and chutes at The Lost Paradise of Dilum waterpark is sure to put a smile on faces, as well as being a wonderful way to keep little ones cool in the sun. A holiday theme park trip is another way to create unforgettable holiday memories, and Yabeela Bahrain won’t disappoint with rides and roller coasters galore packed into this phenomenal indoor attraction. Magic Island is another fabulous theme park. As well as offering more than 100 attractions, its location in Seef Mall means that if your kids are old enough, you can shop while they enjoy the rides. Other venues where fun is on tap include Jumpoline trampoline park, Gravity Indoor Sky Diving and Hawa Inflatable Park, while Ground Control is a must-visit attraction for gamers.

What Is The Food Like In Bahrain?

Dishes to please every taste, craving and appetite can be found in Bahrain, with everything from gourmet creations to street eats on the menu. Whether you like to discover authentic local delicacies, explore a world of flavours or fuel up on fast food favourites, you won’t be disappointed. Agaily & Karak, in Manama, is a top spot for traditional Bahraini dishes, while you’ll also find restaurants serving Italian, Mexican, Indian, Turkish, French, North African and Mediterranean fare. A feast of succulent steak awaits at CUT by Wolgang Puck or you can tuck into the fruits of the sea at Sa6al. Enjoy a meal with a view by the beach or find a rooftop restaurant where you can dine with the glistening lights of the city as a backdrop. If you’re too busy to stop for long, you’ll be glad to know that you can pick up a bite to eat at a variety of cafes, coffeeshops and mall food courts.

What Else Is Bahrain Known For?

Surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain has a special relationship with the water, and was once the centre for the world’s pearling industry. The story of the country’s rich pearling heritage and the impact it has had before the oil era took over is showcased on the Pearling Path. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stretches for 3km and features homes and buildings with links to the industry, as well as pearl beds where the glistening gems were collected from. If you’re seeking a unique insight into Bahrain’s intriguing past, the Pearling Path is well worth a visit. However, one electrifying event that has been held every year but one since 2004, has really helped to put Bahrain on the global stage. The Bahrain Grand Prix is a spine-tingling festival of speed, taking place at the Bahrain International Circuit, in Sakir. It is an occasion that any sports fans should definitely plan their holiday around.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Bahrain really depends on your holiday plans and your preference for warm or hot weather. Being a subtropical destination, you can expect fabulous temperatures and sunny days whatever the season. However, certain times of the year are better suited to specific activities. If you’re craving nothing but lazy days, basking in the sun, you can pretty much take flight to Bahrain whenever the fancy takes you, although the summer months from June to September are the hottest. The mercury can hit 45°C during this time of year, making waterpark outings and water sports action ideal ways to stay cool in the sun. Indoor theme parks, malls and restaurants are also well air conditioned, meaning you can seek out shade without worrying about being uncomfortable. If you’re looking to explore, or partake in outdoor adventures and activities, Bahrain’s winter months may be more preferable. During this time, you’ll enjoy temperatures of around 25°C, perfect for getting out and about without worrying about the weather spoiling your plans.

“Bahrain is a perfect choice for anyone seeking new and exciting adventures in an sun-drenched Arabian island paradise.

“This wonderful destination ticks all the boxes for families, couples and friends, with top-tier accommodation, sensational attractions and endless activities all to be expected.

“Historic landmarks, authentic cultural encounters and irresistible local delicacies wait to be discovered, while children will be wowed by theme parks, water parks and much more besides.

“You’ll find idyllic beaches perfect for whiling away the hours without a care in the world or endless stretches of shoreline where you can enjoy an assortment of exhilarating water sports.

“Motor racing fanatics might wish to time their visit to catch the Bahrain Grand Prix. This scintillating feast of speed is now a mainstay of the FIA Formula One World Championship™ calendar and with our sensational race package, you can experience all the twists and turns for yourself.”

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Escape to a sanctuary of serenity on the shores of Bahrain with a stay at this luxurious 5-star resort. Expect exquisite living spaces, top-tier dining, elegant bars and impeccable hospitality right throughout your holiday. Wellness is also a priority here, with the sophisticated spa an ideal spot to sooth your mind, body and spirit, indulging in treatments and therapies that harness the healing power of the sea. Other highlights include a beach, stunning pool, children’s club and a cutting-edge gym.

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Onyx Rotana

Enjoy a taste of the Arabian high life at this glittering haven of elegance and comfort located by the shimmering waters of Bahrain Bay. Here you’ll feel completely at home in your sumptuous room or suite, able to rest and unwind to your heart’s content. You’ll have the chance to discover sublime cuisine in the top-class restaurants and enjoy wonderful days of relaxation and leisure thanks to features such as an infinity pool, spa, gym, kids play area, video games room and a tranquil indoor garden.

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Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain

Embrace days of sun-drenched bliss in Bahrain with a sensational stay in this immaculate beachfront paradise. Perfect for the whole family, you can expect modern accommodation, enticing restaurants, chic bars and leisure facilities to please all ages. Action and excitement awaits young guests on the inflatable waterpark, while little ones can expect fun and games in the children’s club. Meanwhile, grown ups will delight in spending relaxing days beside the infinity pool, discovering an array of thrilling water sports or enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the beach.

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Jumeirah Gulf Of Bahraini

Seclusion and sophistication awaits on Bahrain’s beautiful west coast at this oasis of delight nestled beside pristine sands and inviting waters. Make yourself at home in your plush room or suite and let all of your cares drift away. Features such as pools, a cinema, children’s club, teens’ club, spa and a fitness centre are sure to appeal, while activities on offer include water sports, squash, basketball, tennis and football. Heavenly beach days can also be enjoyed, along with a world of flavours in the sensational dining venues.

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Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

Live like royalty during your Bahrain holiday staying in ultimate luxury in this exquisite desert paradise. Surrounded by lush gardens, you’ll feel completely at ease, able to enjoy all the delights on offer without a care in the world. Rest, relaxation and rejuvenation can all be expected at this opulent all-villa sanctuary, with amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and tennis courts at your disposal. You’ll dine in style on irresistible dishes and rest easy in living spaces which feature either a Jacuzzi or a pool and a Jacuzzi.

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Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Make memories to last a lifetime on your holiday to Bahrain with a stay at this exceptional island retreat. A haven for all ages, features such as a private beach, children’s waterpark, adults-only and family pools, a spa, fitness centres and a beach club for teens will wow grown ups and delight younger guests. Plush rooms and opulent suites ensure you can kick back and unwind in complete comfort, while high-end dishes to tantalise the taste buds are on the menus of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants.

Check out the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay